Crystal Palace were left frustrated once again by AEK Larnaca in the Conference League, as the Cypriot side held them to a goalless draw at Selhurst Park. The result echoed their 1-0 defeat to the same opponents 139 days ago in the league stage, with Oliver Glasner's side again struggling to find a breakthrough despite dominating possession.
Jean-Philippe Mateta made his return from a six-week injury lay-off as a late substitute, receiving a mixed reception from fans after his failed January move to Milan. The France striker could not inspire his side, squandering a golden chance with his first touch after the ball fell to him from Ismaila Sarr's cross.
“I’m not frustrated today – we just didn’t take the chances. We will play the third game against them and it’s time to score,” said Glasner. The Austrian manager faces a tactical challenge ahead of the second leg in Cyprus, with Larnaca boasting six clean sheets in seven Conference League matches this season.
Palace had the best chance of the match in the eighth minute when Evann Guessand fired straight at goalkeeper Zlatan Alomerovic from close range. Jørgen Strand Larsen also missed a good opportunity, while Tyrick Mitchell almost capitalised on a deflected cross in the first half, but Alomerovic again denied the Eagles.
The second half was played in gusty wind and rain, which made conditions tricky. Chris Richards should have hit the target with a free header, and Mateta's introduction gave Palace a late lift, but Larnaca held firm and even threatened to snatch a winner in stoppage time.
Glasner must find a way to unlock Larnaca's watertight defence next week if Palace are to keep their European dream alive. The Cypriot side, now under new manager Javi Rozada, have proved a stubborn obstacle, and Palace will need to be more clinical in front of goal.
